My Son

My Son was once a major religious site of the Champa Kingdom. It is a a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and considered a must see for visitors to Hoi An. It's really not all that impressive.

Ruins aren't for everyone. But I did study archaeology, I even dug up a few things, I take an interest in history. But My Son didn't do anything for me. It's a short walk on a paved road through not very dense jungle to a few small collections of reconstructed buildings. Our guide spoke English, but didn't paint much of a picture. The site is small in scale, which isn't always a bad thing. But after Tikal and Machu Picchu, and with Angkor Wat on the horizon, I guess I was a little numb to the experience. However, I was fascinated by all the American Vietnam Vets I saw touring the area. I was amazed at how many men who had fought in a brutal war here a few decades ago chose to come on holiday. I had no judgment on the matter. I just didn't expect to see it.

When we left the site, we decided to take a boat back instead of a bus. That made for a nice afternoon.